Waters of the U.S. Permitting Issues for Pipeline Planning and Construction
03 Apr 18
2:00 PM
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3:30 PM
What constitutes—and what doesn’t—waters of the U.S. is a constantly changing definition that impacts pipeline construction projects throughout the country. Waters of the U.S. include rivers, streams, lakes, wetlands, etc., and various factors come into play as to their jurisdictional status. The author will discuss the best methods to determine whether a waterbody meets the physical characteristics of waters of the U.S.—usually through boots on the ground—or mud—but, oftentimes, through use of remote methods to assist in the determination. In addition, the author will explain the latest definition of federally regulated waters of the U.S., per the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and provide examples of each; describe best management practices to avoid costly design and construction mistakes; and examine the various federal laws that accompany the waters of the U.S. permitting and construction process.